An allergy is a reaction of the body's immune system to something that does not bother most people. The body mistakes the harmless substance, called an allergen, for a dangerous invader. The immune system then overreacts by producing antibodies to fight off the allergen.
Allergies can occur when you breathe in, eat, touch or injected with an allergen. Allergies can also occur when the skin comes into contact with an allergen.
An allergist is a medical doctor who has special training in diagnosing and treating allergies and asthma. An allergist can find out what substance or substances are causing an allergic reaction and provide advice on how to avoid them.
Allergists also treat people who have immunodeficiency disorders, such as allergies, hay fever, hives or eczema.
If you think you or your child may have allergies, see an allergist.
An allergist can determine whether you or your child has allergies and help you manage them. Allergists are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of allergies and to recommend the best treatment. They can also provide guidance on how to avoid triggers and manage symptoms.
The signs and symptoms of allergies can vary from mild to severe. They can include:
- sneezing
- runny nose
- itchy eyes
- nasal congestion
- wheezing
- coughing
- difficulty breathing
In some people, allergies can cause a severe reaction, called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
If you think you or your child may have allergies, see an allergist. An allergist can determine whether you or your child has allergies and help you manage them.
Allergies can be caused by a variety of things, such as:
- dust mites
- pollen
- mold
- pet dander
- certain foods
- latex
In some people, allergies can be caused by medications, such as penicillin or other antibiotics. Insect stings, such as from bees or wasps, can also cause allergies.
If you think you or your child may have allergies, see an allergist. An allergist can determine whether you or your child has allergies and help you manage them.
Allergists are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of allergies and to recommend the best treatment. They can also provide guidance on how to avoid triggers and manage symptoms.
An allergist will ask about your medical history and symptoms. They may also do a physical exam. To confirm the diagnosis, an allergist may recommend skin testing or blood testing.
If your child has allergies, it’s important to see an allergist. Allergists are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of allergies and to recommend the best treatment. They can also provide guidance on how to avoid triggers and manage symptoms.
An allergist will ask about your child’s medical history and symptoms. They may also do a physical exam. To confirm the diagnosis, an allergist may recommend skin testing or blood testing.
What are the treatments for allergies?
There is no cure for allergies, but there are treatments that can help relieve symptoms. Avoiding triggers is the best way to manage allergies.
If you or your child has allergies, an allergist can help you develop a treatment plan. Treatment plans may include allergen avoidance, medications and immunotherapy.
If you or your child has allergies, it’s important to see an allergist. Allergists are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of allergies and to recommend the best treatment. They can also provide guidance on how to avoid triggers and manage symptoms.Before you see an allergist, there are a few things you can do to prepare:
- Write down your symptoms, when they occur and how long they last.
- Keep a record of your exposure to possible triggers, such as pollen counts or pet dander levels.
- Bring a list of all the medications you or your child is taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- Write down any questions you want to ask the allergist.
During your appointment, the allergist will ask about your medical history and symptoms. They may also do a physical exam. To confirm the diagnosis, an allergist may recommend skin testing or blood testing.After the evaluation, the allergist will discuss the results with you and develop a treatment plan. The allergist may also refer you to other specialists, such as an immunologist or ENT (ear, nose and throat) doctor.
There is no cure for allergies, but there are treatments that can help relieve symptoms. Avoiding triggers is the best way to manage allergies.
If your child has allergies, an allergist can help you develop a treatment plan. Treatment plans may include allergen avoidance, medications and immunotherapy.
If your child has allergies, there are a few things you can do to help manage their symptoms:
- Keep track of their exposure to possible triggers, such as pollen counts or pet dander levels.
- Help them avoid triggers by keeping windows and doors closed during high pollen days or by not letting them play with pets.
- Teach them to wash their hands and face after being outdoors.
- Give them medications as prescribed by their allergist.
- Help them carry an emergency epinephrine auto-injector if they have severe allergies.
If your child has a disability, they may be eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS can provide funding for treatments and therapies that help manage allergies.
For more information about financial support for children with allergies, contact Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia.
